Aim: To visually compare, using microscope, two different techniques for removing adhesive remnants after orthodontic bracket debonding. Methods: Twenty healthy third molars were used. One molar did not undergo any procedures and served as a control. After bracket bonding and immersion of the teeth in saline solution for 12 days, the attachments were debonded. One of the molars was not stripped of the attachments, while the others (n=18) were randomly divided into two groups according to the adhesive removal technique: Group 1, use of a high-speed 18-blade bur and a fine-grain sandpaper disc; and Group 2, use of a high-speed 18-blade bur, a fine-grain sandpaper disc, and enamel microabrasion. Tooth fragments were collected for inspection under a field emission scanning electron microscope for a qualitative analysis of the adhesive remnants. Results: A substantial amount of adhesive residue remained on the enamel surface of the molars in Group 1. The procedures performed in Group 2 were more effective in removing the adhesive remnants but resulted in greater enamel wear and ledge formation. Conclusion: The combined use of a multiblade bur and the microabrasion technique was the most effective method of removing adhesive remnants and returning the enamel to its pre-treatment appearance.